The Solar Eclipse and What Comes Next

On 12 August 2026, a partial solar eclipse is visible across much of the UK, with around 90–96% of the Sun obscured by the Moon depending on location. It is the most significant solar eclipse visible from the UK since 1999 and has prompted many people to reflect on its symbolism as well as the astronomical event itself.

Astronomically, a solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking the Sun’s light. Spiritually, eclipses have long been associated with periods of transition, revelation, and change. Many traditions see them as moments that encourage us to pause, reflect, and notice what may have been hidden beneath the surface.

Much of the conversation surrounding a solar eclipse focuses on what to do during the event itself. For me, though, the more interesting question has always been what happens afterwards.

The Solar Eclipse as a Time for Reflection

Over the last few months, one theme has appeared again and again through client consultations, tarot readings, and conversations at Wax Spiritual is clarity. Not necessarily clarity about what to do next, but clarity about ourselves.

I’ve noticed people becoming increasingly aware of the patterns they keep repeating, albeit with a little nudge, the relationships they continue returning to, and the parts of themselves that have quietly been asking for attention.

Shadow work has become a recurring theme. Not because it’s on trend, but because many people are either missing their own part within situations they’re navigating or are at the very beginning of recognising their shadow traits. Many want quick fixes or external answers. The answer doesn’t mean taking responsibility for everything that happens to us; it means honestly acknowledging the behaviours, beliefs, and patterns that are ours to work with.

Sometimes that looks like recognising behaviours we’ve outgrown. Sometimes it means noticing where we’re projecting our own fears or expectations onto other people. Sometimes it’s simply admitting that what we thought we wanted no longer feels aligned.

Those moments aren’t always comfortable, but they are necessary when inviting change.

The Solar Eclipse Isn’t About Waiting

One phrase I’ve heard repeatedly over recent months is:

“I’m just waiting to see what happens.”

Some believe in trusting the Universe, surrendering to Spirit, or waiting for a sign. I don’t believe this season is asking us to sit back and wait; if anything, I think it’s asking us to prepare.

Not by forcing outcomes or trying to control every detail, but by becoming honest about who we are, what we genuinely need, what we want and what no longer belongs. All of which should be in alignment with your personal path.

The work isn’t simply waiting for clarity to arrive or waiting for someone to tell you what to do. It’s creating the conditions for (your own) clarity to emerge.

The Solar Eclipse and
Creating Space

One thing I’ve noticed while working with clients recently, there’s an expectation that things will simply happen for them or to them. They’re waiting for an external sign to provide the answers before they’re willing to make a change. But sometimes the answer has already arrived.

Sometimes it’s the quiet realisation that you’re no longer willing to tolerate something.

Sometimes it’s recognising a behaviour you’ve been repeating for years.

Sometimes it’s acknowledging a need you’ve spent a long time ignoring.

Creating space isn’t passive. It’s intentional.

Every boundary you establish.

Every conversation you finally have.

Every behaviour you consciously choose not to repeat.

Every decision that feels more aligned with who you’re becoming.

Each one creates room for something new to enter.

Moving Forward After the Solar Eclipse

Antoinette writes beautifully in her recent article that the Year of the Fire Horse isn’t simply about moving quickly. It’s about moving with intention.

I think the same can be said of this solar eclipse.

Rather than asking, “What is going to happen now?” perhaps the better question is:

“What am I ready to acknowledge?”

Because acknowledgement creates clarity; clarity creates intention, and intention creates movement.

The next chapter isn’t simply about waiting for life to happen to you. It’s about recognising your own needs, understanding your own desires, and taking intentional steps towards the life you’re creating.

Sometimes the greatest transformation doesn’t arrive because something appears out of nowhere.

It begins because you’ve finally acknowledged what you’ll leave behind, creating space for what was always meant for you.

Sareta,
Wax Spiritual

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